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Date: 9/6/2023
SPRINGFIELD — After serving as an interim for six months, Michelle Grout was officially hired as the Springfield Business Improvement District’s executive director.
She fills the vacancy created by Chris Russell’s departure in late December 2022.
Grout has more than 10 years of experience within the organization, with her previous role being the director of operations. She shared that the work was “parallel” to what she is doing now, however, her current position allows her to be more actively involved with relationships with city partners such as the Mayor’s Office, Police and Fire departments and health care providers, among others.
According to Grout, the mission and vision of the Springfield BID is to build a better city to live, work and play in, which she said she plans to reinforce in her permanent role.
One of the areas that Grout plans to focus on is public safety — primarily keeping the downtown as safe as possible, she shared.
In addition to safety, Grout said it is important to keep the streets clean, to “make sure we feel good and look good.”
She noted that downtown visitorship is way up.
“That’s something that feeds the economic vitality of downtown,” Grout said.
She went on to express her excitement for this role and said that it feels like a perfect time to take it on as the downtown works its way back to “normal.” Following the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic, Grout said people are anxious to get back to business as usual.
She added that she is excited about the resurgence in cultural events and recognized various partners including MGM Springfield and the downtown businesses.
“It’s an exciting time to be given this opportunity to lead this organization into the next era,” Grout said.
As a born and raised resident of Springfield herself, Grout acknowledged the “enthusiasm” of the population that chose to live downtown and the increase in residential units.
She noted that people want to be in the city — not just for work or to visit, but to live, which is a thread of the Springfield BID’s mission.
“I am really excited for the opportunity and looking forward to working with people to build a better city,” Grout said.
The Springfield BID works to restore and promote business activity in targeted commercial areas with a range of management, marketing and economic development, services and programs. The organization covers the 26 blocks of downtown Springfield.
The Springfield BID also produces signature events such as the new Duryea Way Wine & Beer Garden, Springfield Restaurant Week, Downtown Ice Invasion and Farmers Market at Tower Square Park.
For additional information on the Springfield BID, visit springfielddowntown.com.